MATH1040: Basic Mathematics - St Lucia Campus

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About MATH1040!

What is it?

This course is a gentle introduction to the most important parts of the mathematics needed at University. It is designed for students with limited backgrounds, and gives a knowledge of mathematics equivalent to Queensland high school Maths B.

Most students take MATH1040 to satisfy a prerequisite. But MATH1040 is also is interesting in its own right, and it will even be useful in everyday life. Many students from other fields take MATH1040 to strengthen their mathematical skills. A number of PhD students have completed MATH1040 so they can understand the mathematics used in their area. Happily a number of students have enjoyed MATH1040 so much that they have studied some of the follow-up courses.

What does it cover?

There are two main components to MATH1040. We start with introductory concepts such as number systems, algebraic manipulation, equations, inequalities and power laws. Then we cover an introduction to summation notation before moving on to simple graphing, and use that as the basis for studying straight lines and simultaneous equations. We define function notation, and then consider some functions whose graphs are not straight lines, which leads into quadratic equations. We then look at exponential functions and logarithms.

Next, we leap into some calculus, by first considering some simple limit problems, and then using this to define the derivative of a function. We study various rules of differentiation, and then examine several useful applications of derivatives, including displacement/ velocity/acceleration, maximisation and minimisation problems and equations of tangent lines. We see how integration relates to differentiation, and some practical applications of integrals (such as areas under curves).

Who should do it?

This course is especially suitable for students with limited backgrounds in mathematics, particularly those who have not been successful in the past! A pass in MATH1040 can be used to satisfy a Maths B prerequisite. It should be taken by anyone who has not completed Maths B, but who wishes eventually to enter a degree or take a course that requires Maths B.

What do I need?

MATH1040 has no prerequisites. It cannot be counted towards a degree if you have a HA in school Maths B, unless you have special permission from your faculty. (You should be doing MATH1050!)

When is it available?

It is offered in Semesters 1 & 2 at St Lucia, and in Semester 1 at Ipswich.

 

 

MATH1040 Web Page (February 2011)